OVERVIEW
Sidney, BC is a small seaside town on Vancouver Island, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning waterfront. Spend the afternoon strolling along the harbour and check out all of the unique boutiques. Indulge in a treat at one of the local bakeries or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Top things to do
Credit: Explore Sidney/Kelsey Goodwin
Experience farm-to-table cafés
Tantalize your taste buds at several local wineries and enjoy farm-to-table deliciously fresh food in the town’s restaurants and cafés.
Credit: Explore Sidney/Kelsey Goodwin
Browse local bookstores
Browse for books at your choice of over 10 different downtown bookstores.
Credit: Explore Sidney/Kelsey Goodwin
Fish for salmon or crab
Set sail and fish for salmon, halibut and lingcod on a charter, or crab from the 90 m Bevan Avenue Fishing Pier.
Credit: Sidney Whale Watching
Join a whale watching tour
Take a whale-watching tour, or lookout for whales, other marine life, and local birds like heron and eagles from the safety of the shore.
Credit: BC Aviation Museum
Visit the BC Aviation Museum
Get up close to fighter planes, commercial planes, helicopters, and historical artefacts, take a tour inside a variety of planes, and learn about the history of Canada’s aviation at the BC Aviation Museum.
Places to stay
SIDNEY
Best Western Plus Emerald Isle Hotel
In the heart of Sidney-by-the-Sea, steps from seaside boutiques, eateries, and top attractions.
Visit hotel website ❯
SIDNEY
Days Inn by Wyndham Victoria Airport Sidney
In the heart of Sidney, this hotel offers free breakfast, airport/ferry shuttles, and a heated pool.
Visit hotel website ❯
SIDNEY
Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites
Relax and enjoy stunning seaside view, located in the heart of charming downtown Sidney.
Visit hotel website ❯Nearby cities
Victoria
Visit the quaint waterfront city of Victoria for a captivating blend of natural beauty, history and culture. Known for having the mildest climate in Canada, there is plenty to see and do in Victoria year-round. Get out out on the water and book a kayaking lesson or join a wildlife tour, or stick to strolling the cobblestone streets for quaint shops, and dining at world-class restaurants.
Victoria is also known as the Garden City, with flowers blooming all around town, has the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and is home to the historic BC Parliament Buildings.
Brentwood Bay
If you seek relaxation, leisure or outdoor activities, then Brentwood Bay has something for you. This rapidly growing community is just a 30-minute drive north of Victoria and is a frequent stop for those wanting to visit the blooming Butchart Gardens, or couples looking to wind down at the Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa.
Cowichan Bay
The waterfront fishing village of Cowichan Bay sits at the head of a beautiful and natural harbour, which is the main focal point of the town, where shops, cafés, galleries and homes float on the water. Dine out on some of the best seafood in the area, relax in waterfront cafés, or take part in a variety of water activities.
Sooke
Sooke is known around Vancouver Island for its abundance of nature, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to get outside. Hike along the coastline at East Sooke Regional Park or check out the Juan de Fuca trail. Make sure to stop by one of the local cafes in the area and check out the art studios and shops.
Disclaimer
Any links provided on this website to third-party websites or information on third-party services, including but not limited to, businesses, accommodation, destinations, facilities, events, and activities, is provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Nothing on BC Ferries’ website is to imply any form of endorsement, approval, sponsorship, or recommendation of third-party content or third-party services, including the terms ‘promote’ or ‘promotion’. The terms 'partner' or 'partnership' as used on this website refers to collaborative or affiliate relationships and is not intended to imply a legal or formal partnership under applicable laws and does not create or imply any shared responsibility for liabilities or obligations. Any third-party activities, events, or other third-party services are sold separately from a booking with BC Ferries, regardless of any discount or affiliation. Any booking with BC Ferries is subject to the Conditions of Carriage, Rules & Regulations, and other policies at the time of booking. BC Ferries is not liable for any issues, damages, or losses that may arise in connection with booking, attending, or participating in any third-party events or activities.
BC Ferries does not control, monitor, or investigate third-party websites or information, and disclaims all responsibility for its accuracy, quality, and safety. Information contained in the links may be changed or updated at any time without notice. In case of a conflict, the information on a third-party website will take precedence over any information on BC Ferries’ website and BC Ferries will be under no obligation to honor any difference in advertised price, terms, discount, or other benefit. It is your responsibility to understand these terms and verify any information contained within linked websites before relying on it. We recommend that you conduct your own research on the third-party, including their own policies, and exercise caution when making travel or event-related decisions. For further details or inquiries about specific events or destinations, please contact the respective third-party providers directly.